First Lieutenant Howard's platoon had left its helicopter landing zone and was moving out on its mission when it was attacked by an estimated two-company force. Lieutenant Howard was wounded and his weapon destroyed by a grenade explosion and his platoon leader had also been wounded and was exposed to fire. Although unable to walk, and weaponless, Lieutenant Howard crawled through a hail of fire to retrieve his wounded leader. While administering first aid and removing the officer's equipment, an enemy bullet struck one of the ammunition pouches on the lieutenant's belt, detonating several magazines. Lieutenant Howard momentarily sought cover and then realizing that he must rejoin the platoon, which had been disorganized by the enemy attack, he again began dragging the seriously wounded officer toward the platoon area. Through his outstanding example of indomitable courage and bravery, he was able to rally the platoon into an organized defense force. He crawled from position to position, administering first aid to the wounded, giving encouragement to the defenders and directing their fire on the encircling enemy. For 3 1/2 hours his small force and supporting aircraft successfully repulsed enemy attacks.

Robert Howard was
nominated three times for the Medal of Honor, his first nomination being
downgraded to the DSC. His second and third nominations wee simultaneous
for two separate actions and the Medal of Honor was awarded for the
first of them, the other was downgraded to the Silver Star. Wounded 14
times in 54 months of combat duty in Vietnam, Howard was awarded 8
Purple Hearts and is believed to be the most decorated living American.

Medal
Of Honor Feature Sites

History

Citations

Photos

Living
Heroes

In
Memory

If you don't see links to
additional MOH Photos at LEFT, CLICK HERE.
To PRINTONLY this page, RIGHT
CLICK on the thumbnail for this photo above and select "Open
in New Window".